Nation's Gourd Lady passes

In fact, she displayed her unique gourd wares at the Southern Spring Show in Charlotte as recently as Sunday.

"She was an inspiration to everyone, both young and old — just her love for life and her positive attitude 100 percent of the time," Conover Mayor Lee Moritz Jr. said, adding he's known Sparky his entire life. "I believe anyone that would meet her would call her our jewel of Conover. ... She was a wonderful example of how contributions can continue throughout your entire life. You can be of service, really no matter how young or old you are."

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Drum Funeral Home & Cremations.

Please be sure to see the Thursday edition of The O-N-E for complete coverage of Sparkman's impact on her community and the people who loved her.